On, Italian citizens—including naturalized immigrants—will participate in a historic referendum that could reshape the country’s citizenship laws. Among the five questions on the ballot, one is particularly significant for Italy’s migrant communities: the reform of the citizenship process.

This referendum will determine whether Italy should reduce the legal residence requirement for citizenship from 10 years to 5 years, making it easier for long-term immigrants to become full members of Italian society. Additionally, the proposed reform includes automatic citizenship for minor children of applicants who meet the residency requirement.

Understanding the Current Citizenship Law

Under Italy’s existing nationality law (Law No. 91 of 1992), foreigners can apply for Italian citizenship through several pathways, including:

By birthright (Jus Sanguinis): Automatic citizenship for children of Italian citizens, regardless of birthplace.
By naturalization:
- 10 years of legal residence for non-EU citizens.
- 4 years for EU citizens.
- 5 years for stateless persons or refugees.
By marriage: After 2 years of legal residence in Italy (or 3 years if living abroad, reduced to half if the couple has children).

Italy’s 10-year residency requirement for naturalization is among the longest in Europe, compared to:

Germany: 8 years (or 5 years for well-integrated migrants).
France: 5 years (or 2 years for those with significant academic or professional achievements).
Spain: 10 years (but only 2 years for citizens of Latin American countries, the Philippines, and former Spanish territories).

What Will Change if the Reform Passes?

If the referendum succeeds, the following key reforms will take effect:

✅ Residency requirement reduced from 10 years to 5 years: This would align Italy more closely with France and Germany, making naturalization more accessible.

✅ Automatic citizenship for minor children of applicants: If a parent meets the 5-year residency requirement, their underage children will automatically receive Italian citizenship, ensuring family unity.

✅ Faster integration for long-term migrants: The reform recognizes the contributions of immigrants to Italian society, facilitating their inclusion in political, economic, and social life.

However, other conditions for obtaining Italian citizenship will remain unchanged, including:

✔️ Italian language proficiency (B1 level or higher).

✔️ A stable income that meets legal thresholds (to ensure economic self-sufficiency).

✔️ A clean criminal record (no serious convictions).

✔️ Compliance with tax obligations.

What Are the Arguments For and Against the Reform?

✅ Supporters Say:

✔️ Faster integration: Immigrants who work, pay taxes, and contribute to society should not have to wait a decade for citizenship.

✔️ Economic benefits: More citizens mean a stronger workforce and increased consumer spending, benefiting the economy.

✔️ Democratic participation: Long-term migrants who live in Italy should have the right to vote and engage fully in civic life.

✔️ Family unity: Children of immigrants should not have to navigate complicated bureaucratic processes to become Italian.

❌ Opponents Argue: ❌ Risk of abuse: Critics fear that reducing the waiting period could attract more economic migrants seeking quick citizenship.

❌ National security concerns: Some argue that Italy needs more time to vet applicants before granting them full rights.

❌ Cultural assimilation: Opponents believe that a shorter timeline may not allow enough time for full integration into Italian society.

❌ Political motivations: Some view the reform as an attempt by political parties to secure votes from naturalized citizens.

How to Vote in the Referendum

The referendum will take place on June 8 and 9, 2025, alongside the second round of municipal elections. This decision was made to increase voter turnout and ensure widespread participation.

🗳️ Voting Rules for Citizens Away from Their Municipality

If you are away from your registered municipality for at least three months due to work, study, or health reasons, you can still vote.

✔️ Submit a request by May 5, 2025, in the municipality where you are temporarily residing.

✔️ Your municipality of domicile must verify your eligibility and request certification from your municipality of residence.

✔️ Once confirmed, you will be registered to vote in your temporary location.

Why This Referendum Matters

Citizenship defines who belongs to a nation—who has rights, who can vote, and who is considered part of society. This referendum represents a pivotal moment for Italy’s migrant communities and could bring the country’s citizenship laws in line with its European neighbors.

If passed, this reform could change the lives of thousands of immigrants who have made Italy their home. Your vote matters—make your voice heard!

Italy’s Citizenship Referendum 2025: A Historic Vote for Immigrant Communities